Tennessee has music, history, and outdoor adventures. From the Smoky Mountains to Beale Street, there’s something for everyone. Explore cities, hike trails, or tour famous landmarks. Whether you love live music, scenic views, or great food, you’ll find plenty to do. Here are 10 places to check out.
1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Nature’s Playground
Location: Eastern Tennessee
If you love the outdoors, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a must-visit. It’s the most popular national park in the U.S., and for good reason. The misty mountain views are stunning, and there are hundreds of miles of hiking trails. Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the park, offers breathtaking views—you just have to make it up a steep half-mile trail to get there. If you’d rather take it easy, Laurel Falls is a short, paved hike that leads to a beautiful waterfall.
For a scenic drive, head to Cades Cove. This valley is packed with history, from old cabins to churches built in the 1800s. It’s also one of the best places to spot wildlife like deer, wild turkeys, and even black bears. Another great drive is Newfound Gap Road, which takes you up to 5,000 feet in elevation with stunning mountain views.
No matter when you visit, the park has something special to offer. Spring brings colorful wildflowers, summer is great for waterfall hikes, fall turns the mountains into a sea of red and gold, and winter sometimes dusts the peaks with snow.
Tip: The park gets crowded, especially in summer and fall. Arrive early in the morning to get a head start on the trails.
Fun Fact: The Smokies got their name from the natural fog that rises from the trees, making the mountains look like they’re smoking.
2. Nashville: The Heart of Country Music
Location: Central Tennessee
If you love music, Nashville is the place to be. They don’t call it “Music City” for nothing. Country legends got their start here, and live music is everywhere. Walk down Broadway Street, and you’ll hear it pouring out of honky-tonk bars all day and night. Stop by the Country Music Hall of Fame to see memorabilia from stars like Dolly Parton and Johnny Cash. Speaking of Cash, his museum is just a short walk away. And don’t skip the Ryman Auditorium—this legendary venue once hosted the Grand Ole Opry and still puts on incredible shows.
The Opry itself is still going strong. You can catch a show at the Grand Ole Opry House, or take a backstage tour to see where country music history is made. Music Row is another must-visit. This area is home to famous recording studios, including RCA Studio B, where Elvis Presley recorded some of his biggest hits.
But Nashville isn’t just about music. It has some cool surprises too. Head to Centennial Park to see a full-scale replica of the Greek Parthenon. If history is your thing, check out Belle Meade Historic Site, where you can tour an old Southern mansion. And of course, you have to try hot chicken—it’s spicy, crispy, and totally worth the heat. If that’s not your style, grab a meat and three plate at a classic Southern diner.
Nashville is also big on sports. Fans pack stadiums for the Tennessee Titans (NFL) and Nashville Predators (NHL). The city also throws some of the best festivals around. The CMA Fest brings in country fans from all over, and the Tomato Art Fest in East Nashville is a quirky local favorite.
Tip: Broadway gets wild at night. If you want a more laid-back vibe, go in the afternoon.
Fun Fact: The Grand Ole Opry started in 1925. It’s the longest-running radio show in the U.S.
3. Memphis and Beale Street: Birthplace of the Blues
Location: Western Tennessee
Memphis is all about music, history, and barbecue. The city is the home of the blues, and Beale Street is where it all comes to life. Walk down the neon-lit street, and you’ll hear live bands playing everything from blues to rock ‘n’ roll. Stop by B.B. King’s Blues Club for great music and classic Southern food.
Of course, you can’t visit Memphis without going to Graceland. Elvis Presley’s home is packed with memorabilia, from his jumpsuits to his pink Cadillac. Whether you’re an Elvis fan or not, it’s a fascinating look at the life of a music legend. If you want to see where more stars got their start, head to Sun Studio, where Elvis, Johnny Cash, and Jerry Lee Lewis recorded their first hits.
Memphis also played a huge role in the civil rights movement. The National Civil Rights Museum, located at the Lorraine Motel, is a powerful experience. It tells the story of the struggle for equality and honors Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who was assassinated there in 1968.
And then there’s the food. Memphis is famous for barbecue, and you can’t leave without trying some. Whether it’s ribs from The Rendezvous or pulled pork from Central BBQ, you won’t be disappointed. If you’re visiting in May, check out the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest, where pitmasters compete for the best ribs in town.
Tip: Beale Street gets lively at night, but if you want a quieter visit, go in the afternoon.
Fun Fact: In 1977, Congress officially named Beale Street the “Home of the Blues.”
4. Dollywood: A Theme Park Full of Southern Charm
Location: Pigeon Forge
Dollywood isn’t just a theme park—it’s a celebration of everything Dolly Parton loves about the Smoky Mountains. You’ll find thrilling roller coasters, live country and bluegrass music, and even craftsmen making handmade goods the old-fashioned way. The park is packed with rides, but the most famous is Lightning Rod, a wooden coaster that launches riders at crazy speeds. If roller coasters aren’t your thing, check out the Dollywood Express, a real coal-powered train that gives you a scenic ride through the Smokies.
One of the best things about Dollywood is the food. You can grab a plate of Southern-style fried chicken, giant cinnamon bread, or classic country fixings. Throughout the year, the park also hosts seasonal events like the Smoky Mountain Christmas, where millions of lights transform it into a winter wonderland.
Next door, Dollywood’s Splash Country is a great way to cool off in the summer. It has slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools, making it perfect for families.
Tip: If you want to skip long lines, go on a weekday or grab a TimeSaver pass to get on rides faster.
Fun Fact: Dollywood is home to the world’s fastest wooden roller coaster, Lightning Rod, which reaches speeds of 73 mph.
5. Ruby Falls and Lookout Mountain: Natural Wonders Await
Location: Chattanooga
Ruby Falls is one of the most stunning underground waterfalls in the country. Hidden inside Lookout Mountain, this 145-foot waterfall was discovered in 1928 when a group of explorers accidentally stumbled upon it. Now, visitors can take a guided tour through the cave’s winding tunnels, leading to the massive underground cascade. The lighting inside the falls creates a magical glow, making it one of the most photographed spots in Tennessee.
Once you’ve seen the falls, there’s plenty more to explore on Lookout Mountain. Head to Rock City Gardens, where you can walk along cliffs, cross a swinging bridge, and see seven different states from the scenic overlook. Another must-do is the Lookout Mountain Incline Railway, one of the steepest passenger railways in the world. It’s a slow, scenic ride, but the views from the top are worth it.
If you’re up for a bit of adventure, Lookout Mountain also has some great hiking trails with stunning views of Chattanooga and the Tennessee River.
Tip: Book your Ruby Falls tour in advance, especially on weekends—it fills up fast!
Fun Fact: Ruby Falls is the tallest underground waterfall in the U.S. that’s open to the public.
6. Jack Daniel’s Distillery: Iconic Whiskey, Historic Tour
Location: Lynchburg
Jack Daniel’s is one of the most famous whiskey brands in the world, and it all started in the small town of Lynchburg. The Jack Daniel’s Distillery has been making Tennessee whiskey here since the 1800s, using the same charcoal-mellowing process that gives it its smooth taste. Visitors can take a guided tour to see how the whiskey is made, from fermentation to barrel aging. And yes, some tours include tastings (for those of legal age).
Even though Jack Daniel’s is known worldwide, Lynchburg itself is a quiet little place. In fact, it’s in a dry county, meaning you can’t actually buy regular liquor in town—except for special edition bottles sold at the distillery. After your tour, take a stroll through the charming town square, grab some barbecue, or check out the small shops.
Tip: If you want a more in-depth experience, take the “Angel’s Share” tour—it includes tastings of premium whiskey straight from the barrel.
Fun Fact: Jack Daniel’s uses water from a natural limestone spring on the property, which is free of iron and perfect for making whiskey.
7. Bristol: The Birthplace of Country Music
Location: Northeastern Tennessee
Bristol is a small town with a big place in music history. In 1927, a series of recordings known as the Bristol Sessions introduced the world to country music. The Birthplace of Country Music Museum tells the story of how artists like The Carter Family and Jimmie Rodgers helped shape the genre. The museum has old recordings, interactive exhibits, and a working radio station that still plays classic country.
If you’re into racing, Bristol Motor Speedway is another big draw. This short-track NASCAR stadium is one of the loudest and most exciting in the sport. Fans pack in for races, making it an unforgettable experience.
Bristol also has a fun, walkable downtown with live music, great food, and unique shops. The town even straddles the Tennessee-Virginia border—you can stand in two states at once just by walking across State Street.
Tip: Visit in September for the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, a three-day music festival celebrating the town’s legacy.
Fun Fact: The Bristol Sessions are sometimes called the “Big Bang of Country Music” because they launched the careers of so many legendary artists.
8. Tennessee Aquarium: Underwater Adventure
Location: Chattanooga
If you love aquatic life, the Tennessee Aquarium is a must-visit. It’s one of the best aquariums in the country, with exhibits that take you from local rivers to the deep sea. The aquarium is split into two main sections: River Journey and Ocean Journey. The River Journey focuses on freshwater wildlife, featuring giant catfish, river otters, and even alligators. The Ocean Journey showcases sharks, jellyfish, stingrays, and playful penguins.
One of the coolest things about the aquarium is how interactive it is. There are touch tanks where you can feel stingrays and small sharks. The butterfly garden is another highlight, with colorful butterflies flying all around you. Outside, the aquarium sits right on the Tennessee River, and you can walk along the riverfront for great views of downtown Chattanooga.
If you want to keep the adventure going, check out Walnut Street Bridge nearby. It’s one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world and a great spot for photos.
Tip: Get your tickets online ahead of time to skip the lines. The aquarium can get busy, especially on weekends.
Fun Fact: The Tennessee Aquarium is home to more than 12,000 animals from rivers, lakes, and oceans around the world.
9. Reelfoot Lake State Park: A Natural Wonder Created by Earthquakes
Location: Northwestern Tennessee
Reelfoot Lake isn’t like other lakes—it was created by a series of massive earthquakes in the early 1800s. The quakes were so strong that they temporarily reversed the flow of the Mississippi River, flooding the area and forming this unique lake. Today, it’s a peaceful place for fishing, kayaking, and wildlife watching. The lake is lined with cypress trees, giving it a swamp-like feel.
Birdwatchers flock here in the winter to see bald eagles, which nest around the lake. The park offers guided eagle tours where you can see these birds up close. During the warmer months, visitors can rent canoes or take boat tours to explore the water. There are also several hiking trails, but the real highlight is being out on the lake itself.
Reelfoot Lake is also known for its fishing. Anglers come here for crappie, catfish, and bluegill. If you’re not into fishing, you can just enjoy the peaceful views and take in the quiet beauty of the park.
Tip: If you visit in January or February, take a guided eagle-watching tour—they fill up fast, so book early.
Fun Fact: The earthquakes that created Reelfoot Lake were among the most powerful in U.S. history, with some reports saying they were felt as far away as New York and Canada.
10. Fall Creek Falls State Park: Adventure and Natural Beauty
Location: Central Tennessee
If you’re looking for waterfalls, try visiting Fall Creek Falls State Park. It’s home to Fall Creek Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in the eastern U.S. at 256 feet. But that’s just the start. The park has several other waterfalls, including Cane Creek Falls and Piney Falls, plus miles of hiking trails that take you through forests, gorges, and rocky cliffs.
For those who love adventure, the park has a canopy challenge course with zip lines, rope bridges, and climbing obstacles. There’s also rock climbing, fishing, and swimming during the warmer months. If you prefer a more relaxed visit, you can take a scenic drive through the park or enjoy a picnic with incredible views.
Camping is a big draw here, with cabins, campsites, and even an inn for those who want to stay overnight. The park covers nearly 30,000 acres, making it one of the largest state parks in Tennessee.
Tip: The best time to visit is in the spring or fall. The waterfalls are at their strongest after rain, and the fall colors are incredible.
Fun Fact: The park was created in the 1930s as part of the New Deal, with help from the Civilian Conservation Corps.
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